SA CEOs raise hundreds of thousands for vital homelessness services
South Australian politics, business and community leaders braved a soggy Adelaide Zoo last night to raise money for an important cause.
Local CEOs and community leaders raised more than $800,000 last night at the Vinnies CEO Sleepout, with funds to stay in South Australia and to be deployed on vital homelessness services.
The 130-strong group – which included the likes of South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas – significantly exceeded last year’s total by more than $100,000.
In total, $819,418 was raised, with funds to go to vital services across South Australia, including the Vinnies Women’s Crisis Centre, Men’s Crisis Centre, Fred’s Van food service, and tailored support for individuals and families.
Malinauskas was the top fundraiser of the night, saying he “ruthlessly exploited” his office to raise more than $100,000 for the St Vincent De Paul Society.
The volunteer rough sleepers found shelter within the Adelaide Zoo, many choosing to sleep under the central rotunda, while others braved the cold, windy night wrapped in tarps and sleeping bags.
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Earlier, they heard stories from people who had lived experience of homelessness and housing instability, giving them context for the services Vinnies provides SA’s rough sleepers.
A light dinner was provided, courtesy of Fred’s Van: a sausage in bread and a cup of soup.
Malinauskas said he had been taking part in the CEO Sleepout for a number of years now, saying “they’re a great organisation”.
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“I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to participate in the CEO Sleepout for a number of years, going back before I was in Parliament,” he said.
“Last night wasn’t the coldest night, but it was probably the second-wettest. But that’s all good fun, and makes us earn it.
“There are people in our community, tragically, that do this almost every night, and that’s what we’re raising money for.”
Vinnies SA CEO, Clinton Jury, said Vinnies was grateful for all fundraisers and donors, who helped the charity raise $800,000 so far.
“Vinnies SA will use this money to sustain our wide safety net of services, which helps tens of thousands of South Australians every year,” he said.
“They also enable our network of volunteers to deliver other support – including food support and help with bills – that keeps people out of homelessness.
“Every dollar of this money will stay in South Australia and means South Australians doing it tough can receive the immediate assistance that so many need.”
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